Inter-Atalanta 1-1: AC Milan Have a Golden Opportunity to Reopen the Title Race
San Siro is no longer an impregnable fortress for Inter. The Nerazzurri, coming off a derby defeat, suffered yet another home setback with a 1-1 draw against Atalanta. Esposito broke the deadlock in the first half before Krstovic levelled the score in the 85th minute, sparking furious protests from the Inter bench and the expulsion of manager Christian Chivu.
Just one point collected in the last two matchdays — something inside Inter appears to be cracking, and Max Allegri’s Milan now have a genuine chance to reignite the title race. With nine rounds still to play, tomorrow night’s trip to the Olimpico to face Lazio takes on enormous significance for the Rossoneri’s season.
Should Milan secure all three points in Rome, the pressure will shift squarely onto Inter’s shoulders at a time when they are clearly struggling for consistency. The message is clear: the Scudetto race is far from over, and Milan have every reason to believe they can fight until the very end.
Sarri in Press Conference: “I Envy Milan’s Revenue”
Ahead of the match, Lazio boss Maurizio Sarri spoke in his press conference with words that underline the respect the Rossoneri command across Italian football: “What do I envy about Milan? Their revenue — they have the highest turnover in Italy and can therefore afford certain players.”
In reality, Milan currently rank third in Italy by revenue behind Inter and Juventus, but they remain one of the wealthiest clubs in the country, buoyed by an international prestige that few can match and that continues to attract top-tier sponsors and commercial income.
10,000 Rossoneri Fans Set to Pack the Olimpico
Tomorrow night at 20:45 CET, the Olimpico will host a clash of real magnitude. Lazio supporters will return to the stands in force after a prolonged absence, but Milan will be backed by an impressive 10,000 travelling fans. A remarkable turnout that speaks volumes about the passion and belief the Milanisti hold in Allegri’s squad at this pivotal stage of the campaign.
Allegri on Santiago Gimenez: “He’s Much Better — Mentally He’s in Great Shape”
There is encouraging news regarding Santiago Gimenez. The Mexican striker, sidelined for a lengthy period following ankle surgery, has been training with the group since Tuesday and his condition is improving significantly.
Speaking in his press conference, Max Allegri provided a key update: “Gimenez is better, much better. He still needs time because he’s coming back from a long injury, but mentally and psychologically he’s in very good shape.” A crucial detail, given that the striker’s last appearances before the setback had looked flat, seemingly weighed down by psychological strain.
The Mexican international will not be called up for the trip to Rome, but his return draws closer: the target is to have him available for next week’s fixture against Torino at San Siro. Milan are gradually getting a key weapon back for the final stretch of the season.
Predicted Lineup: Allegri Opts for 3-5-2 in Rome
For the Olimpico clash, the Tuscan tactician is expected to deploy a 3-5-2 formation. Here is Milan’s probable starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
- Back three: Tomori, De Winter, Pavlović (Gabbia still unavailable)
- Midfield: Saelemaekers, Fofana, Modrić, Jashari(slight favourite over Ricci to replace the suspended Rabiot), Estupiñán (ahead of Bartesaghi on the left flank)
- Attack: Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic
All eyes will be on the American Pulisic, who is desperate to end a prolonged goal drought. His partnership with Leão nevertheless promises fireworks, and the Portuguese winger looks in superb form to inspire the Rossoneri under the Roman lights.
AC Milan Transfer Watch: Nicolas Jackson Emerges as a Top Striker Target
While the pitch demands immediate answers, Milan’s board is already planning for the future. Once Champions League qualification is mathematically secured, the club will pursue a high-calibre number 9 — a penalty-box striker in the mould of Olivier Giroud, capable of finishing the chances created by the flanks and midfield maestros like Modrić and Rabiot.
Among the most intriguing profiles on Milan’s radar is Nicolas Jackson, the 24-year-old Senegalese forward currently on loan at Bayern Munich from Chelsea. The situation could work in Milan’s favour: the Bavarians appear reluctant to activate the buy option, meaning Jackson is likely to return to Stamford Bridge — where Chelsea reportedly plan to put him straight back on the market.
This is familiar territory for Milan: the Rossoneri had already held talks with Jackson’s representatives when the forward was still at Villarreal, before Chelsea swooped in to complete the deal. Meetings took place at Casa Milan, and the interest was genuine.
The main obstacle remains the player’s high wages, a factor that cannot be overlooked. In the coming weeks, Milan could renew their pursuit in earnest. Jackson has endured a mixed campaign in Munich — roughly 24 appearances, many from the bench — with a modest goal return across the Bundesliga and Champions League, a situation that could push Chelsea to lower their asking price.
Beyond the Senegalese striker, Milan are also monitoring domestic options such as Moise Kean of Fiorentina. As for Dušan Vlahović, reports of a possible contract renewal at Juventus could close that avenue. Either way, the Rossoneri’s intentions are clear: a marquee, high-level signing is planned for the summer to bolster the attack.
